Winter transforms Laramie, Wyoming, into a magical wonderland, offering a unique opportunity for families to experience the beauty of the outdoors in a whole new light. While the landscape may be blanketed in snow, the trails around Laramie remain open, providing a host of winter-friendly adventures for families with kids. From serene snowy landscapes to thrilling sledding hills, Laramie has plenty of winter hikes that promise fun and excitement for everyone. So, bundle up, grab your mittens, and embark on a winter hiking adventure that your family will cherish forever.
Secret Sledding Hill
Driving to the Snowy Range in winter may be a little daunting on wintery days but you will find amazing trails in the lower portion of the Snowy Range Scenic Byway. The Corner Mountain trail is a great easy trail that leads to a small but secret sledding hill. Less than .5 miles into the trail you will come upon a small sledding hill on the left-hand side of the trail. The hill has a large area cleared of trees and shrubs, making it perfect for a bit of sledding with the kids. If you continue on this trail, it is an easy- to moderate-level trail that can be hiked as a loop or as an out-and-back trail. Be sure to bundle up if you are planning hikes in the Snowy Range area because the temperatures can be 10-30 degrees cooler than in Laramie.
Wind protected Trails
Winter can be especially windy in Laramie making it feel like a chore to go out, but if you know the right trails you can get out even on the windiest of days. The trails at Tie City provide a great barrier to the wind. The trails wind through forests of pines, cedars, and aspens that provide the perfect reprieve from the wind. The trails at Tie City cater to both hikers and cross-country skiers, providing a winter wonderland for all. It is important to read the signs and stay on the paths designated for each of these activities. The marked trails are well-maintained in winter, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors. The difficulty level varies, with some trails offering easy, leisurely walks perfect for families.
Winter Climbers
Vedauwoo Climbing area is known for its wonderful granite rock formations. The trails at Vedauwoo offer a range of difficulty levels, making it accessible to hikers of all ages and skill levels. Families can enjoy leisurely walks along the scenic trails, taking in the breathtaking views of the snow-covered granite rock formations. One of the highlights of hiking at Vedauwoo in winter is the opportunity to climb around on the granite rocks, which are covered in a layer of snow, providing a unique and exciting challenge for kids and adults alike. The winter landscape at Vedauwoo is truly enchanting and unique.
Convenient and Safe
Laramie has a trail system great for hiking and biking right in town. The Pilot Hill trails wind through the picturesque foothills of the Laramie Mountains, offering stunning views of Laramie and the Snowy Range. The trails at Pilot Hill offer a variety of options, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, making them accessible to families with small children as well as more experienced hikers. The length of the trails also varies, with some shorter loops perfect for a quick winter outing. The trails are well marked with plenty of signs posts and maps, which makes them easy to navigate even in snowy conditions. To access these trails you can park at the end of E Willet Dr and walk straight into the trail system.
